Looking to Buy My First Nice Watch...Would Love Some Advice

[CamaroDMD]

Originally Posted by Gab27

That makes it a bit more difficult. I agree you should not settle, but IMO it is also ideal to see these in-person before spending such a large amount of money. I originally thought I was going to like the older case design, but when wearing one and comparing it with one with a super case, I found I liked the super case more when on my wrist. So I was surprised how much what I wanted changed upon looking down at the watches when worn by me.

Do any of the ADs near you also deal in used?

There's only one AD in Portland, OR and they do not. There are some other jewelers in the area who sell used Rolex's but the one's I have visited have not had any sport watches in stock.

[Robf52]

Originally Posted by easy e

this. It will only cost you more in the long run.

+3.

[MrMercedes]

Originally Posted by TswaneNguni

116610LN ,brand new in box ,reputable grey dealer. 3135 movement,tough as nails .No fuss no mess .

Ad the Blue TT Sub as the second,not as the first .

100%

[Panader]

I vote TT sub from the AD, then put your name down for a SS GMT.

Paying $22,000 USD for a Pepsi is a very indulgent purchase that sounds like you cannot afford.

[Boopie]

There’s a lot of good advice here.

First, I totally get your wanting a Rolex. If that’s what you want, don’t be dissuaded. I got my (first) Rolex as a commemoration of 10 years of marriage, I’d made partner at my law firm, and didn’t have kids (yet). My husband and I met very young, while still in college, and married while still in school. My wedding ring is a gem-less plain gold band. This summer is our 30th anniversary. I wanted a Rolex because, well, it’s a Rolex. I joked that it was the diamond we couldn’t afford for my wedding ring. Granted, 20 years ago most “nice” women’s watches were quartz, even a Patek Twenty-4. Rolex was the exception. I’ve since then truly come to appreciate the horological aspects of the watch (and am stunned that it’s still working and looking awesome and giving me a thrill when I look at it after 20 years of daily wear). So, if it’s a Rolex you want, and can afford, go for it!

Second, if you can, try on the watches you are interested in before you buy. Skin tone and wrist size affect what looks good and what doesn’t. My Ss/platinum YM wasn’t my first choice, but what was my first choice didn’t look good on my wrist. As it turns out, silver/white metal looks better on me than gold. Because Rose gold is, I think, an alloy, it’s hit and miss. There are some stunning RG photos here. I tried on a RG DD in Vegas a few years ago; it looked awesome on display but a big meh! on my wrist. I know you are looking at SS watches, but see how the colors look on you.

My husband has a TT black face Sub (16613) and a Pepsi GMT 16710. The Sub rides higher on the wrist because it appears to be a thicker case. He swears the 16710 is the most comfortable watch he’s ever worn, even more than the Sub.

You’ll see endless posts here about a watch that “sings” to someone. My non-WIS friends would find that bizarre, but it’s true. There are plenty of $500 watches that will look great and tell time well, but if you want a Rolex my advice is to buy what “sings” to you. If it doesn’t, don’t force it because it’s the “hot” model. To celebrate your milestone, you’ll want a watch you’ll love and won’t tire of.

So, all of this summed up is, don’t settle, and buy what you want (and can afford), after you’ve tried it on. If you’re not loving what you thought you’d like, pass.

FWIW we’ve bought two used watches online from HQ Milton (the 16710 and a 16200 DJ), and I have confidence in their merchandise.

Good luck and congratulations! Once you get your dream watch, any wait or premium paid will be worth it.